Dysphoria Gender Identity

With more examples of differences in gender identity in the media, such as celebrities or even laws being passed against transgender individuals, transgender issues and attention to their medical care has to be incorporated into medical education. Gender dysphoria is characterized by a sense of distress that related to an individual’s gender identity and that person’s assigned gender at birth, based on his or her sex characteristics (Bonifacio, 2015). While some individuals do exhibit certain signs of dysphoria, if they are accepted for their gender identity feelings of dysphoria are usually lessened. In Wanda J’s case, her parents’ expression of disdain and shame for her gender identity has lead to feelings of depression and anxiety. Wanda …show more content…
Perhaps in seeing that there are others experiencing the similar issues, they can come to terms with the change in their child. The best education that one can receive is via someone who has experienced the lifestyle. While I could provide literature and journal articles, the burden of reading and digesting that material is on Wanda’s parents. In speaking to Wanda, broaching the subject with understanding and sensitivity would be the main goal. I would make sure to ask about preferred pronouns, ask about future plans and generally act as her advocate in terms of her health. While most of the literature discourages from full transition for the end of puberty, I would still educate Wanda on her options and measures that she could take in the future. However, I could only do this with Wanda’s parents’ permission. Hormone therapy is typically not administered under the age of 16, so the conversation with Wanda and her parents would be geared towards beginning the transition socially, i.e. wearing preferred gendered clothing, addressing by preferred pronouns (Abel, 2014). Studies have shown that there is a significant impact on parental support and mental health of transgender youth. In a study conducted by Simmons and Schrager (2013) trans youth who had parental support …show more content…
While the two struggles can not be equally quantified, there are some similarities. People of color are stigmatized in media and are in a constant battle with lawmakers and society to be heard. Transgender individual, a sexual minority, also struggle with limitations by lawmakers, such as the recent transgender bathroom bills in the south. Perhaps in demonstrating to the parents that there is an underlying similarity in the struggle to be acknowledged and accepted by both the trans and African American community, there can be a start in fostering understanding. Both of these groups have cultural impacts and exist in their own spheres. Both groups have issues that are important to each of them and they deserve dignity and